Pakistani Chicken

Prep: 90 min Cuisine: Pakistani

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a savory soy-lemon mixture, infused with sesame and ginger, perfect for flavorful barbecues and gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup salad oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced onion
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seed
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

  1. Pour the marinade over the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight.
  2. Barbecue the marinated chicken on an outdoor grill until cooked through and nicely charred.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the marinade. If you're short on time, marinating for just 30 minutes can still add good flavor, but longer is always better. If you want a healthier twist, substitute the salad oil with a blend of Greek yogurt and lemon juice, which can also keep the chicken moist while reducing fat content.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued chicken with a side of fragrant basmati rice or a fresh salad, which can be a perfect complement. Consider pairing it with a cool cucumber raita to balance the flavors. For a complete meal, it pairs beautifully with Salad-Toss for a refreshing crunch or some grilled vegetables.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out, covering it to steam for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pakistani Chicken contains roughly 186 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 884mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).

186 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 14.5g 19% DV
Carbs 14.3g 5% DV
Fiber 2g 7% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 883.9mg 38% DV
Potassium 193.1mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 13.3mg 15% DV
Calcium 28.6mg 2% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Soy Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with tofu for a vegan option, or you can use shrimp or beef. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly; shrimp will cook faster, while beef may need a bit longer to reach the right doneness.

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with fluffy naan or pita bread, which can soak up the delicious marinade. A simple cucumber salad or roasted vegetables will also complement the flavors perfectly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños or a tablespoon of sriracha into the marinade. You can also serve the grilled chicken with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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